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  • Kyobo Life Supports 239 Social Ventures Over Eight Years with 94% Survival Rate
    Kyobo Life Supports 239 Social Ventures Over Eight Years with 94% Survival Rate Kyobo Life has nurtured 239 startups aimed at solving social issues, benefiting over 300,000 individuals through their products and services. On August 22, Kyobo Life announced that through its social contribution program 'Impact Up,' it has supported the growth of 239 social ventures from 2018 to last year. According to the '2025 Impact Up Performance Report' published in July, Kyobo Life identified 1,246 companies focused on solving social problems over the past eight years, nurturing 239 of them. The survival rate of these nurtured companies is reported at 94%, with 487 new jobs created during their growth. Impact Up was launched in 2018 to support companies that assist in the education and growth of future generations, including children and adolescents. The program has since expanded its support to areas such as welfare, healthcare, and the environment. Depending on the growth stage of the companies, it offers expert mentoring, management and legal consulting, marketing, investment presentations, and networking opportunities. The products and services of the nurtured companies have been utilized in education, caregiving, and healthcare settings. As of last year, the cumulative number of beneficiaries reached 301,751. Key achievements include providing free mental health diagnosis and counseling using artificial intelligence (AI) to 48,160 individuals, free childcare matching for 13,000 families, stress management for 11,060 students, and support for 6,100 children at risk of hunger. Recently, the program has expanded its support to include health management for the elderly and mental health for adolescents. Stress Solution has assisted students in measuring and counseling their stress levels through 'Healing Beat,' which provides personalized sound based on biometric signals. The technology to predict the risk of panic attacks using heart rate variability is also under development. BioBytes is currently operating an AI solution that can diagnose and manage sarcopenia, a condition characterized by the loss of muscle mass and strength as people age. A representative from Kyobo Life stated, "The role of Impact Up is to help companies with ideas and technologies for solving social problems to continue growing in the market. We will support the dissemination of these companies' achievements to more people and communities."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 10:04:00
  • New Start Fund Assists 147,000 with Debt Restructuring, Average Principal Reduction of 74%
    New Start Fund Assists 147,000 with Debt Restructuring, Average Principal Reduction of 74% As of now, 147,000 small business owners and self-employed individuals have entered into debt restructuring agreements through the New Start Fund. Participants at a recent meeting emphasized the need for expanded support for credit recovery and improvements in employment and management following debt restructuring. On August 22, the Korea Asset Management Corporation (KAMCO) announced that it held a 'New Start Fund Communication Meeting' the previous day at the KAMCO Yangjae Tower in Gangnam, Seoul, attended by customers utilizing the fund and counseling professionals. During the meeting, attendees shared their experiences and counseling cases following debt restructuring. One beneficiary stated, "Debt restructuring has alleviated my repayment burden, allowing me to successfully re-enter the job market," but added, "Despite my commitment to fulfilling the agreement, my low credit score due to past delinquencies limits my business and employment opportunities," urging for a reduction in the credit recovery period. Participants suggested that policies supporting management environment improvements and job transitions should accompany debt restructuring. They also noted that the barriers to loans from financial institutions remain high, advocating for an expansion of public financial support for low-income individuals. Counselors reported an increase in inquiries and demand for management improvement consulting conducted in collaboration with the Small Business Association, recommending an expansion of re-employment support programs linked with relevant organizations. By the end of July this year, a total of 211,000 individuals had applied for debt restructuring amounting to 33.4 trillion won through the New Start Fund. Of these, 147,000 have signed agreements totaling 13.5 trillion won. The average principal reduction rate is 74%, with an average interest rate reduction of 5.4 percentage points. KAMCO President Jeong Jeong-hoon stated, "We will reflect the opinions from the field into our program operations to develop support measures that provide tangible assistance to diligent repayers."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 10:04:00
  • US approves possible $125 million sale of AIM-9X missiles to South Korea
    US approves possible $125 million sale of AIM-9X missiles to South Korea SEOUL, August 22 (AJP) - The United States has approved a possible $125 million sale of more than 100 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II air-to-air missiles to South Korea, a move Washington says will strengthen Seoul's air defense capability and deterrence against regional threats. The U.S. State Department said Friday that it had approved the possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS), of 103 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II tactical missiles and 10 AIM-9X Block II tactical guidance units, along with related equipment and support. The estimated total cost of the package is $125 million. The State Department said the proposed sale would support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the security of South Korea, which it described as "an important force for political stability and economic progress" in the Indo-Pacific region. Washington also said the sale would improve South Korea's ability to respond to current and future threats by expanding its air defense capability and "deterring aggression in the region," while ensuring interoperability with U.S. forces. The principal contractor for the proposed sale will be RTX Corp., the Virginia-based U.S. defense company whose Raytheon business manufactures the Sidewinder missile. The AIM-9X is the latest generation of the Sidewinder family of short-range, infrared-guided air-to-air missiles and is widely used by U.S. and allied fighter aircraft. South Korea already operates AIM-9X missiles on several of its U.S.-designed fighter aircraft, including the F-15K, KF-16 and F-35A. The latest authorization adds to a series of previous U.S. approvals for South Korean acquisitions of the Sidewinder. The approval also comes as Washington and Seoul face questions over the future scale of their joint military exercises. U.S. President Donald Trump this week instructed the Pentagon to "substantially reduce" joint drills with South Korea, citing their cost and describing them as unnecessarily hostile toward North Korea, even as the annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise began as scheduled. The State Department's decision does not mean the transaction has been finalized. Under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales process, the proposed sale is subject to congressional notification and review before a final agreement can be concluded. 2026-08-22 09:33:21
  • AI-Driven Strategy Aims for $1 Trillion in Korean Exports
    AI-Driven Strategy Aims for $1 Trillion in Korean Exports The Republic of Korea's exports have surpassed $700 billion and are on track to reach $1 trillion. However, achieving the next leap cannot rely solely on the semiconductor boom.KOTRA President Kang Kyung-sung has introduced a strategy called 'Everyone's Export,' which utilizes AI to identify markets, connect with buyers, and help local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) enter the global market. AI is changing the way and the entities involved in Korean exports. Surpassing $700 billion towards '$1 Trillion in Korean Exports' South Korea's economic growth story is rooted in its export history. Exports, which were just $100 million in 1964, have now exceeded $700 billion in over 60 years. When Kang took office in November 2024, he set the goals of becoming one of the 'Top 5 Global Exporters' and preparing for the 'Era of $1 Trillion in Exports.' Now, the focus is not just on increasing export volume but on transforming the export structure. Korean exports are heavily dependent on semiconductors and specific markets like the U.S. and China. A downturn in the semiconductor market or sudden changes in the global trade environment could significantly impact overall exports. This is why Kang emphasizes 'robust diversification.' The strategy involves expanding markets to ASEAN, India, and Latin America, while diversifying products from semiconductors to biohealth, consumer goods, defense, and power equipment. Another key aspect is increasing the number of exporting companies. AI Lowers Barriers for Small Manufacturers Large corporations have overseas sales teams and local subsidiaries, but small manufacturers and startups in regional areas face different challenges. Even with high-quality products, they often struggle to identify potential markets, meet buyers, and navigate certifications and regulations. Kang plans to bridge this information and manpower gap using AI. When companies input product information, AI analyzes overseas markets and competing products, identifies promising markets, and filters potential buyers. It also provides information on local certifications and regulations. AI is lowering the entry barriers for exports that previously favored companies with specialized personnel and overseas networks. This goes beyond mere efficiency; it democratizes exports. Local SMEs without export experience can now challenge the global market by leveraging AI and KOTRA's overseas network. This is what Kang refers to as 'Everyone's Export.' 'AI Export Assistant' to Work Independently At the center of this initiative is KOTRA's 'AI Export Assistant.' Kang stated, “Once users set their goals, an autonomous agent will handle market research, buyer contact, document preparation, and scheduling, reporting only the results.” For instance, if a company representative says, “I want to export this product to Germany,” the AI will research market size and competing products, identify potential buyers, check necessary certifications and regulations, and prepare consultation materials and documents. In the future, the AI agent could also manage buyer contacts, scheduling, and follow-ups.This marks a shift from 'answering AI' to 'working AI.' This represents a significant change for SMEs that lack export specialists. While it has been challenging for each company to have market researchers and export experts, AI agents can supplement much of that role. Transforming SMEs into Exporters Nationwide KOTRA does not view AI as a technology exclusive to large corporations or those in the capital region. It is utilizing 20 AI Trade Support Centers across the country as export hubs for local businesses and youth. Through the 'Export Hope 1000 Project,' KOTRA supports the overseas expansion of small local businesses, and through 'K-Export Star 500,' it nurtures promising SMEs into key export players. AI assists in market research and buyer discovery, while KOTRA's global network connects companies on the ground. If this model spreads, the structure of Korean exports could change. The focus could shift from large corporations in Seoul to regional SMEs, and from manufacturing to K-food, K-beauty, bio, content, and AI companies. The true significance of achieving $1 trillion in exports lies here. It is more important to create a structure where companies from all over Korea participate in the global market than to simply increase exports from a few large corporations. Exporting with AI and Exporting AI Itself There is another critical aspect of Kang's strategy to highlight. It is not enough to simply export existing products effectively using AI. South Korea must also develop its AI technology as a new export industry. Kang is particularly focused on M.AX (Manufacturing AI Transformation). South Korea has a world-class manufacturing base in semiconductors, automobiles, batteries, and shipbuilding. Numerous factories and production facilities generate actual industrial data, and there is a wealth of accumulated technology in robotics and smart factories. While the U.S. and China lead in the competition for large generative AI platforms, South Korea has the potential to compete in manufacturing AI and physical AI. Combining AI with the world’s best manufacturing capabilities is key. KOTRA hosted the '2026 Physical AI Superconnect' in Silicon Valley last June, connecting Korean AI companies with local U.S. businesses and investors. Just as South Korea exported automobiles and semiconductors, it can now offer factory operation technologies, robotics, smart factories, and manufacturing AI to the global market. Exporting with AI and exporting AI itself. KOTRA Will Also Transform into an AX Organization As KOTRA calls on companies to undergo AI transformation, it cannot continue operating in the same way. Kang emphasizes that the most challenging issues in the AI transformation process are 'data and organizational culture,' rather than the technology itself. For AI to function effectively, KOTRA must convert the market information, buyer, company, and trade data it has accumulated over decades into a format usable by AI. The way employees work must also change. This is why KOTRA is establishing internal systems for AI initiatives and expanding AI utilization in the field. Ultimately, the essence of AX is not just to implement AI programs but to change how the organization operates. Yet, the final contract is still signed by a person. No matter how advanced AI becomes, the essence of exports will not disappear. Kang states, “Even if data analysis and execution are handled by AI, building trust and final negotiations ultimately depend on human will.” AI can analyze markets, find buyers, prepare documents, and coordinate schedules. However, at the final moment of deciding contracts worth millions or hundreds of millions, people must ultimately trust one another. Thus, the future KOTRA that Kang envisions is not an organization devoid of human involvement. It is an institution that supports, connects, and generates results in the field with the help of AI. If AI takes on research, analysis, and repetitive tasks, humans can spend more time building relationships, negotiating, and establishing trust. AI-Driven Korean Exports Aiming for $1 Trillion For South Korea to enter the era of $1 trillion in exports, it cannot rely solely on a few semiconductor products and the strength of a few large corporations. More companies need to export. More regions must connect with the global market. The export markets and products must also diversify. Additionally, the AI industry itself must grow as a new export driver. AI is the connecting link for all these changes. AI finds markets. AI analyzes buyers. AI assists with export tasks. KOTRA's global network connects companies and people. The final negotiations and trust are completed by humans. If South Korea combines its manufacturing strength with AI, new export industries can emerge. Enhancing the productivity of existing exports through AI, turning more companies into exporters via AI, and ultimately exporting South Korea's AI technology to the world. This is the vision of 'Korean Exports at $1 Trillion' that Kang Kyung-sung is painting. If exports were the force that brought South Korea into the global arena during the industrialization era, exports in the AI era could once again reshape the map of the South Korean economy. The true challenge of the $1 trillion export era is not just the numbers. It is connecting all of South Korea to the global market through AI. Kang Kyung-sung, KOTRA President: Kang entered public service and gained experience in the fields of industry, energy, and trade. He has held key positions in the Presidential Office and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, serving as the first and second vice ministers of the Ministry of Industry. He became KOTRA President in November 2024.He is pursuing export diversification, AI trade support, and the globalization of manufacturing AI transformation (M.AX) with the goals of becoming one of the 'Top 5 Global Exporters' and preparing for the 'Era of $1 Trillion in Exports.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 09:20:00
  • World Cup Final Brawl: Argentinas Paredes Suspended for 10 Matches
    World Cup Final Brawl: Argentina's Paredes Suspended for 10 Matches 2026 North American World Cup final saw a brawl involving Argentine players, leading to sanctions from FIFA. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a significant penalty of a 10-match suspension. According to a report by Yonhap News on August 22, citing the Associated Press, FIFA announced on August 21 that Paredes would be suspended for 10 matches, while Nahuel Molina received a 7-match suspension and Thiago Almada was given a 1-match ban. Paredes and Molina were also fined $90,000 each (approximately 125 million won), while Almada was fined $30,000. The players engaged in violent confrontations with Spanish players immediately after losing the final. Paredes was specifically noted for his aggressive actions, including grabbing the neck of Spanish defender Eric Garcia and pushing Gavi to the ground. Paredes' 10-match suspension is one of the heaviest penalties issued in World Cup history. The Associated Press referenced past similar severe sanctions, including the case of Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez, who received an 8-match suspension and a 4-month ban from all football activities for biting Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini during the 2014 World Cup. In 2013, Croatia's Josip Šimunić was also handed a 10-match suspension for shouting Nazi slogans to the crowd after a World Cup qualifying playoff victory. As a result of this suspension, Paredes will effectively be unable to participate in Argentina's national team matches for nearly a year. He will miss all scheduled international matches until June of next year, during which Argentina's games will all be friendlies. Argentina's coach Roberto Ayala received a 3-match suspension and a $30,000 fine. In Spain, Gavi was handed a 1-match suspension, preventing him from participating in next month's UEFA Nations League match against England. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) also faced penalties. FIFA fined the AFA $110,000 due to players displaying political banners related to the Falklands War after their semifinal victory, as well as discriminatory chants from fans. Additionally, the AFA was required to contribute $100,000 to FIFA's anti-racism initiatives. Furthermore, the AFA was ordered to limit attendance at their next home match to 50% of the venue's capacity. The AFA announced it would appeal FIFA's decision and is considering filing a case with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 09:04:10
  • The Urgent Need for University Consolidation Amid Declining Enrollment
    The Urgent Need for University Consolidation Amid Declining Enrollment <Education & Perspective> examines the issues in primary, secondary, and higher education amid the collapse of public education, declining school-age populations, and a turbulent college admissions system. It also seeks sustainable alternatives while providing a cold yet warm perspective on our society.The crisis facing regional universities is now an unstoppable wave. The sharp decline in school-age populations is directly linked to the threat of school closures, making the survival of universities a challenge not just for individual private institutions but for entire regions. The ongoing discussions about the consolidation of national universities are a desperate measure to protect public education in these areas. However, the journey toward integration, which began with the justification of overcoming this crisis, is encountering significant obstacles.One of the major topics in academia is the integration process between Chungbuk National University and Korea National University of Transportation. The two universities agreed to merge to promote structural reform and the Glocal University 30 initiative, generating high expectations. However, as they delved into specifics such as naming the new institution, restructuring similar and overlapping departments, and determining the placement of the university headquarters and core functions, they faced intense conflicts among faculty, staff, and students.This issue is not limited to Chungbuk National University and Korea National University of Transportation. In Daejeon and Chungnam, Chungnam National University and Kongju National University took a commendable first step by resolving the challenges of naming and headquarters distribution through compromise. In contrast, Mokpo National University and Sunchon National University in Jeonnam experienced a painful breakdown in negotiations over the location of a new medical school and affiliated hospital, losing a long-awaited opportunity for a national medical school in the region.The Obsession with Privilege and 'Collective Self-Interest'What are the key factors that determine success or failure in these cases? It lies in whether they achieve a 'chemical integration' that combines hearts and visions, going beyond mere 'physical amalgamation.' The Korean proverb 'Dong Sang I Mong' (同床異夢) illustrates this point: lying in the same bed but dreaming different dreams. While they may outwardly advocate for the survival of regional universities and local development, if they are inwardly preoccupied with fears of losing out or protecting their own privileges, any integration will be nothing more than a sandcastle.The failed negotiations between Mokpo National University and Sunchon National University will be remembered as a painful example of squandering a golden opportunity for establishing a national medical school, a long-standing aspiration of the region. They became trapped in a 'regional self-interest' battle over resources between the universities and local governments, ultimately sacrificing future benefits.Furthermore, as seen in the case of Chungbuk National University and Korea National University of Transportation, the real challenges of integration begin after legal agreements are reached. If conflicts over job security and status among staff, as well as interests between faculty and students regarding department mergers and campus relocations, are not resolved, the integration will only lead to superficial struggles. In contrast, the compromise and distribution strategies demonstrated by Chungnam National University and Kongju National University prove that letting go of privileges can pave the way for mutual growth.Communication and Compromise Governance: Key Conditions for Chemical IntegrationIn the face of declining school-age populations and the threat of regional extinction, university consolidation has become a necessary task rather than a choice. For the merger to yield genuine results beyond mere power redistribution, certain conditions must be met.First and foremost, 'genuine communication and psychological integration that transcends self-interest among members' is crucial. Agreements on university names and headquarters locations are just the beginning. If self-interest among various sectors and affiliations is not set aside in practical matters such as department restructuring, staff organization integration, and student enrollment succession, conflicts will inevitably resurface.Additionally, presenting a 'regionally tailored campus specialization vision' is essential. One campus should focus on research, while another should emphasize industry-academia cooperation or specialized academic fields, ensuring that all members of both universities can recognize and agree on these roles to create synergy.Moreover, establishing a framework for 'breaking down regional self-interest and fostering cooperation' with local governments and communities is indispensable. The perspective of viewing university consolidation solely as a profit-and-loss calculation for specific local governments must be abandoned. The moment they become mired in regional self-interest, both the universities and the regions cannot escape mutual destruction.Wisdom in Cooperation for a Greater UnityThe historical text 'Zuo Zhuan,' which records the history of the State of Lu during the Warring States period, mentions 'Je Gu Po Sin' (除舊布新), meaning 'to discard the old and establish the new.' This is a virtue desperately needed by our universities and communities today.In the face of the overwhelming tide of population decline, if we do not shed the old burdens of privilege, attachment to affiliations, and regional self-interest, we will never be able to embrace a new future. University consolidation is not the destination but the starting point for structural reform and innovation.It is hoped that the merging of universities for survival will not merely result in superficial growth but will serve as a catalyst for genuine educational innovation that brightens the future of the region and its youth. To achieve this, university authorities, faculty, staff, students, and local governments must all transcend self-interest and demonstrate the wisdom of sacrifice and cooperation toward a 'greater unity.'* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 09:04:00
  • H2O Hospitality Introduces Smart Check-In at Rotana Hotels in Abu Dhabi
    H2O Hospitality Introduces Smart Check-In at Rotana Hotels in Abu Dhabi H2O Hospitality, a South Korean hospitality tech company, has completed the implementation of an AI-based smart check-in solution across all Rotana hotels in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This system replaces the traditional front desk procedures of presenting passports and filling out paperwork with pre-registration and facial recognition.On August 20, H2O Hospitality announced its partnership with Rotana, which operates hotels in the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe, and Turkey, to introduce the smart check-in solution at all Rotana hotels in Abu Dhabi. The initiative covers a total of 4,240 rooms across 15 hotels, including Rotana Hotels & Resorts, Arjaan, and Centro.The software platform provided by H2O Hospitality manages the entire process, from WhatsApp notifications to pre-check-in, integration with the hotel property management system (PMS), staff screens and tablets, and information sharing with government authorities upon check-in completion.Guests who receive a message one or two days before their stay can complete pre-check-in by registering their passport and taking a facial photo as instructed via WhatsApp. Upon arrival at the hotel, guests can finalize their identity verification through facial recognition while walking to the front desk, where staff will greet them by name and hand over their room key cards, eliminating the need to present passports or fill out forms.Guests who did not pre-check-in or arrive without a reservation can also complete the process by registering their ID and taking a facial photo using a tablet.Dominic Carr, Chief Information Officer of Rotana, stated, "Smart check-in meets the heightened expectations of customers while allowing hotel staff to focus on guest hospitality. The data insights gained from this process will enhance the customer experience and enable hotels to make smarter, faster decisions, representing a core technology of next-generation hospitality."H2O Hospitality and Rotana are discussing plans to expand the implementation beyond Abu Dhabi. H2O Hospitality aims to leverage this partnership to grow its business in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.Lee Woong-hee, CEO of H2O Hospitality, remarked, "We are in discussions with many global and local hotel chains beyond Rotana. We expect the adoption of H2O's smart check-in solution to increase rapidly. We are building a customer data platform (CDP) for innovation in the tourism industry and plan to further enhance our AI-based hotel operation solutions based on this."With this contract, H2O Hospitality's operations in the Middle East have expanded to three hotel chains in the UAE. Earlier, in August 2023, H2O Hospitality signed a digital transformation (DX) contract with the Middle East and Africa branch of Millennium Hotels and Resorts to prioritize the application of its solution, H2O Flow, at the five-star Grand Millennium Al Wadha in Abu Dhabi.In March of the previous year, H2O Hospitality also secured a contract to supply its smart check-in solution to the luxury Westminster Dubai Mall Hotel, connected to the Dubai Mall.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 09:04:00
  • Summer Vacation Accommodations Focus on Water Activities at Hanwha Resort
    Summer Vacation Accommodations Focus on Water Activities at Hanwha Resort As families increasingly prioritize water activities when choosing summer vacation accommodations, resorts are expanding their facilities and offerings to cater to this demand. From character-themed water play areas for young children to large water parks with thrilling slides, the trend is clear.On August 22, Hanwha Hotels and Resorts announced that it is enhancing its water facilities and related packages at Hanwha Resorts nationwide to capture the late summer vacation market.Demand for swimming pools and water parks is on the rise. According to the National Statistical Portal (KOSIS), the usage rate of swimming pools and water parks increased from 22.8% in 2023 to 25.3% in the previous year, a 2.5 percentage point rise. A 2024 analysis of social media big data by the Korea Tourism Organization also revealed that water parks ranked second among family vacation activities, accounting for 36.1% of preferences, following beach visits.The most significant upgrades have been made at the Geoje Belvedere, which installed a new 50-meter water slide this summer. This slide connects the indoor pool to the outdoor pool and allows users to descend at a speed of 23 km/h. Since the installation of the water slide, pool attendance this month has surged by 113% compared to the same period last year.Programs for children have also been introduced. The kids' pool is hosting a 'Hot Summer Bubble Event' until August 30, and four additional lifeguards have been assigned to ensure safety. Paddleboard experiences, which include lessons and equipment rental, will be available until September 27.In the Gangwon region, accommodations are being bundled with water park access and performances. Seorak Waterpia operates attractions like 'Torrent River' and 'Extreme Valley,' offering a 45% discount on all water park access for guests at Seorak Sorano.A two-person package linked to the 'Water Bomb Sokcho' event on August 22 is also available. This package includes admission to Water Bomb Sokcho, a weekly pass to Waterpia, and accommodation, all at a price 60% lower than the regular rate.For families with young children, Hanwha Resort's 'Pororo Aqua Village' features water play facilities utilizing natural hot spring water, including a lazy river and play areas themed around the Pororo character.Hanwha Resort's Sanjeong Lake facility will operate a nearby water play area until August 31, targeting families looking to enjoy water activities without long-distance travel.A representative from Hanwha Hotels and Resorts stated, “We have introduced a new water slide at Geoje Belvedere and added discounts and packages at other locations. This will provide excellent options for families seeking late August vacations.”* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 09:04:00
  • Professor Seo Kyung-duk: Chinese Influencers Misrepresent Hanbok at Gyeongbokgung
    Professor Seo Kyung-duk: Chinese Influencers Misrepresent Hanbok at Gyeongbokgung Recently, Chinese influencers have been posting photos and videos of themselves wearing Hanfu, a traditional Chinese garment, at popular tourist sites in South Korea, including Gyeongbokgung Palace. Professor Seo Kyung-duk of Sungshin Women's University pointed out that this could lead to misunderstandings among foreign tourists regarding Hanbok, the traditional Korean attire. On August 22, Professor Seo stated on his social media, "I have received numerous reports about Chinese influencers parading in traditional Chinese clothing at Gyeongbokgung. There is an alarming number of videos on the global video platform TikTok claiming that Hanbok originated from Chinese Hanfu." He emphasized, "Hanbok is a traditional Korean outfit that is distinctly a two-piece garment, as seen in murals from the Goguryeo period, while Hanfu is a one-piece garment, making them fundamentally different." Professor Seo also highlighted that the Oxford English Dictionary clearly defines Hanbok as 'traditional Korean clothing.' He noted that some Chinese internet users have been asserting for years online that Hanbok is derived from Hanfu. He referenced a controversial instance where the Chinese portal Baidu Encyclopedia described Hanbok as 'Zhuang nationality clothing.' According to Professor Seo, the greater issue lies not in wearing Hanfu at Gyeongbokgung but in creating and disseminating this content on social media. He warned, "Our Hanbok and China's Hanfu are distinctly different garments, which could lead to misunderstandings among foreign tourists." He added that some Chinese internet users have continued to claim that Hanbok originated from Hanfu, perpetuating what is referred to as 'cultural appropriation.' He also mentioned instances where online shopping platforms in China have categorized Hanbok and Hanfu together, causing further controversy. Professor Seo remarked, "This is not the first time such incidents have occurred at Gyeongbokgung. Chinese influencers need to develop a 'global etiquette' that respects the history and culture of other countries." He concluded by stating, "We should not only criticize the distortion of Chinese culture but also take a greater interest in Hanbok and actively promote it worldwide."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 08:40:00
  • Anthropic Hires Key Google TPU Expert to Accelerate AI Chip Development
    Anthropic Hires Key Google TPU Expert to Accelerate AI Chip Development Anthropic, an artificial intelligence (AI) company, has recruited a key expert who led AI semiconductor development at Google. This move accelerates the company's efforts to secure talent for its own AI chip development. According to a report by Yonhap News on August 22, citing Bloomberg, Anthropic has hired Amir Saleh, who previously headed Google's AI chip Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) division. Saleh worked at Google until 2022, where he led the development of TPUs from the first to the seventh generation. Before joining Google, he spent eight years at NVIDIA. At Anthropic, Saleh will join the computation team and report to James Bradbury. The push for in-house chip development at Anthropic is driven by the rapidly increasing demand for computational resources to run AI models. Securing its own chips will help the company address the shortage of computational infrastructure and reduce costs. Earlier in June, Anthropic also hired Clive Chan, an early member of OpenAI's custom chip development team. The company is reportedly in discussions with Samsung Electronics' foundry division to produce its own AI chips. However, the development of its own chips does not mean Anthropic will sever ties with NVIDIA. The company plans to continue utilizing external semiconductors, including NVIDIA graphics processing units (GPUs), Google TPUs, and Amazon Trainium, in its computational strategy. Competitor OpenAI is also pursuing its own AI chip development, having unveiled its custom AI chip, 'Jalapeño,' in June.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-08-22 08:32:00